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Author: Alaleh Shakourianfard

How to Care for Yourself and Seek Support from Your Psychotherapist if You Have PPD/PPA

Postpartum depression (PPD) and anxiety (PPA) are common mental health challenges that many mothers face after giving birth. You are not alone, and there are ways to nurture yourself and receive the support you need during this time. Although self-care plays a huge role in managing PPD and PPA, a skilled psychotherapist can also help […]

Navigating the Challenges of Immigrant Diaspora in Receiving Psychotherapy in Individualistic Western Culture

For many immigrants, or children of immigrants, seeking psychotherapy in a Western, individualistic culture can feel like a daunting task. The very principles of Western psychotherapy, which often emphasize personal autonomy, self-expression, and individual problem-solving, can clash with the collective, family-oriented values that are central to many immigrant communities. This cultural dissonance presents unique challenges […]

How Psychotherapy Can Enhance Sports Performance

When you think about an athlete’s training, the focus is often on physical training, nutrition, and technique to improve their performance. One crucial component frequently overlooked is mental health. Psychotherapy can play a significant role in helping athletes maximize their potential and achieve their goals. Here’s how: Understanding the Mental Game Sports are as much […]

Coping With the Trauma of Marginalization

Trauma from marginalization is an experience that affects individuals who face systemic oppression because of their identity, such as race, gender, sexual orientation, ability, or socioeconomic status. This type of trauma often manifests through chronic stress, anxiety, and feelings of worthlessness, impacting mental health and overall well-being. What Trauma from Marginalization Looks Like Chronic Stress […]

Navigating a Relationship with a Narcissistic Parent

Dealing with a narcissistic parent can be particularly challenging, as their behaviors often involve a lack of empathy, constant need for validation, and difficulty respecting boundaries. Here are some strategies to help you navigate this complex dynamic while maintaining your own emotional well-being. Understand Narcissism: Recognizing that narcissistic traits stem from deep-seated insecurity and unmet […]

Coping with Back-to-School Stress for Parents Through CBT

The back-to-school season can be a stressful time for parents, juggling schedules, preparing for new routines, and managing their children’s transition. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) offers practical strategies for coping with this stress by addressing the thoughts and behaviors that contribute to anxiety. Here’s how CBT can help parents navigate this busy time, with a […]

Understanding Prenatal and Postpartum Depression and Anxiety: Symptoms and Treatment Options

Becoming a parent is often portrayed as a joyous and fulfilling experience, but for many individuals, it can also be accompanied by overwhelming emotions of sadness, anxiety, and stress. Prenatal and postpartum depression and anxiety are common yet serious conditions that affect many expectant and new parents. Recognizing the symptoms and understanding treatment options are […]

The Impact of Chronic Pain and Treatment Options

Living with chronic pain is more than just a physical challenge; it permeates every aspect of life, influencing emotions, relationships, and daily activities. Whether caused by injury, illness, or unknown factors, chronic pain can profoundly impact an individual’s quality of life and mental well-being. Understanding Chronic Pain Chronic pain is characterized by persistent discomfort that […]

Understanding Depressive Symptoms: A Closer Look

Depressive symptoms encompass a spectrum of emotional, cognitive, and physical manifestations that affect people from all walks of life worldwide. At its core, depression involves more than fleeting sadness; it pervades daily life, disrupting relationships, work, and overall well-being. Depressive symptoms can manifest in various forms, impacting individuals on multiple levels. Often misunderstood, these symptoms […]